Madam, – Apart from the outrageous drink prices, several other equally fundamental factors have contributed to the decline of the Irish pub (Opinion, April 6th).
The long-standing brewing and distribution monopolies of such global organisations as Diageo and Heineken have led to a lack of real choice, which in turn has finally created an Irish palate that has been progressively induced to prefer bland and carbonated ales and lagers.
This situation has been exacerbated by the unwillingness of publicans to provide the extra care needed to keep and serve those real ales which would expose a drinker’s tastebuds to new and exciting experiences.
The status quo has been maintained by the financial clout and huge advertising budgets of the multinational concerns, making it very difficult for new brewers to break into the market and challenge the giants.
– Yours, etc,